Walmart manager of store that forced vets to leave apologizes

Many people were outraged the vets were told to hit the road, but Walmart employees said they were just following store policy.

BLADEN COUNTY, NC (WECT) – Walmart employees in Elizabethtown called the police Sunday to make sure some veterans handing out poppies in honor of Memorial Day would leave the store. Now, the manager of that Walmart has called and apologized to Veterans of Foreign Wars, saying that he would do anything possible for the group.

Many people were outraged the vets were told to hit the road, but Walmart employees said they were just following store policy.

According to a spokesperson for Walmart, groups who want to solicit in front of their stores must be approved and scheduled in advance and only one group is allowed to reserve a table at a time.

VFW member Bobby Ludlum thought the organization had booked a space weeks in advance, but the store had no record of it and booked another group.

"Maybe we're somewhat at fault. Maybe we should have called in after our commander, came in and made the reservation and make absolutely sure that things were good," said Ludlum.

Chairman of County Commissioners Charles Ray Peterson called Bobby Ludlum, saying that he wanted speak to talk to corporate Walmart officials as well.

As of Tuesday afternoon, he hasn't heard back anyone from corporate.

Walmart had previously told WECT.com in a statement that they are happy to work with VFW to find another weekend that works for them.

"Our company's appreciation for the military runs deep through our history. As one of the largest private employers of veterans, Walmart is proud to recognize and support those who have served and are serving our country," Walmart said in a statement.